Thanks for the reply. To me the answer to the question is yes. To each his/her own. I can listen to limited amounts of drum machine in music as long as it sounds decent, but I always prefer to hear the real thing. To me a tune with programmed anything could always be better with people playing instruments.

I have yet to hear a lead instrument part in any smooth/contemporary jazz that was so good, moving, compelling, etc. that I could tolerate backing sounds which I do not care for. I listened to samples on Amazon, and much of it seemed to have programmed parts. I may download a few of the tunes, but there is no way I will buy the CD.

This is just one guy's opinion. What I do not get is his comment about too much technology, and then he goes ahead and uses it anyway. There is no way anyone will convince me that all that progammed stuff is necessary because I know otherwise.

Thanks again. Peace and goodwill.

I agree with you Mark. My comment was specifically in reference to Secrets. I just wanted to make that clear. Generally, yes, it DOES matter. But in this case, I don't find it a problem because of the way it's presented, as well as some pretty darn good songwriting and performance by Marion.

Cool.

AAJ review